HS 2259 

.R62 
1920 
Copy 1 




ROYAL KNIGHTS 



KING DAV 



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UKM 





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Book JBJaSi 

CopightN°_li&0_ 

COPXRIGHT DEPOSIT. 



RITUAL 



OF THE 



Royal Knights of 
King David 




COMPILED BY 

W* G. PEARSON 

* 



The Seeman Printery 

durham, n. c. 

1920 



5 

W. T. 








1 

W. M. 










4 

W. R. S. 




















6 

W. Con. 




8 

W. Chap. 


















ALTER 




3 

W. Sen. 
















2 

W. Chan. 




7 
W. Sent. 




ANTE ROOM 


ANTE ROOM 





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ORDER OF BUSINESS 

>o 

1. Eoll of officers and absentees noted. 

2. Minutes of the last meeting read and approved. 

3. Officers absent at the previous meeting called to 
explain. 

4. Communications in reference to the sick and 
distressed. 

5. Applications for membership presented, read 
and referred. 

6. Communications in reference to the welfare of 
the Lodge, or the Order in general, presented and 
acted upon. 

7. Report of committee on applications for mem- 
bership (previously referred) acted upon and appli- 
cants balloted for. 

8. Contribution roll of members called by the 
Financial Secretary — fines and the taxes first, and 
then the monthly dues. Bills read and ordered to be 
paid. 

9. Nomination, election and installation of officers. 

10. Initiation of candidates. 

11. Consideration of deferred and new business. 



PEARSON'S RITUAL 



OPENING 



W. M. (taking the chair and giving one rap with 
the gavel.) — Brethren, I am about to open this Lodge 
for business. Officers will please take their seats. 
The Worthy Conductor will see that the entrance is 
properly closed and guarded. 

[W. C. places the Gate-keeper and Sentinel at their 
posts — the Gate-keeper at the outer door and the 
Sentinel at the inner door; after which he returns, 
and, giving the sign of the degree in which the Lodge 
is about to open, says:] 

W. Con. — Worthy Master, the entrance is closed 
and properly guarded. 

W. M. — Worthy Chancellor, you will please prove 
all the members present by the password. 

[Worthy Chancellor examines all in the room, shak- 
ing the left hand of each member, the brother at the 
same time whispering the password to the Worthy 
Chancellor. If all present are in possession of the 
password, the Worthy Chancellor reports:] 

W. Chan. — Worthy Master, all present are proved 
worthy members of the Royal Knights of King 
David. 

[If there be any present who cannot give the pass- 
word, the Worthy Chancellor shall report the name 
of such member to the Worthy Master, who must dis- 
pose of each case as the law directs; but in no case 
should a visiting member receive the password in any 
Lodge except the one to which he belongs, or the one 



6 Pearson's Ritual 

in which he has his card of Liberty deposited, or as 
the laws direct.] 

W. M. — Worthy Conductor, yon will please ascer- 
tain if all the officers are at their positions and in- 
vested with their proper regalia. 

[The Worthy Condnctor, having examined, re- 
ports:] 

W. Con. — Worthy Master, all the officers are at 
their positions and invested with proper regalia. 

[If any vacancies exist, the Worthy Chancellor will 
report the same to the Worthy Master, who will fill 
them by temporary appointment; after which, the 
Worthy Chancellor will advance, and, after saluting 
the Worthy Master, conduct each officer (separately) 
before him. The Worthy Master gives two raps with 
the gavel, which calls the officers up, and says :] 

W. M. — Worthy Chancellor, what are your duties? 

W. Chan. — Worthy Master, my duties are to assist 
you in opening and closing your Lodge; to examine 
all persons present before opening the Lodge, and to 
report those who are without the password; to per- 
form such other duties as you or the Lodge may di- 
rect, and in your absence, take charge of the Lodge 
and act for you ; take charge of the regalias and other 
property of the Lodge, keep them in order and see 
that none are lost. 

W. M. — Worthy Recording Secretary, what are 
your duties? 

W. R. S. — Worthy Master, my duties are to keep a 
just and true record of all the proceedings; conduct 
all correspondence ; make out and forward all reports 
and other official communications, whenever required, 
to the S. G. L. ; keep the financial accounts regularly, 
fairly and faithfully between the Lodge and its mem- 



Pearson 's Ritual 7 

bers; receive all moneys due the Lodge, and pay the 
same over to the Worthy Treasurer, taking his receipt 
therefor, and balance the account with the Worthy 
Treasurer. 

W. M. — Worthy Treasurer, what are your duties? 

W. T. — Worthy Master, my duties are to receive 
all moneys from the hands of the Worthy Recording 
Secretary ; keep a just and true account thereof, pay- 
ing out the same only on the order of the Worthy 
Master, signed by the Worthy Recording Secretary, 
with the seal of the Lodge attached. 

W. M. — Worthy Conductor, what are your duties? 

W. Con. — Worthy Master, my duties are to wait on 
the officers and members during the hours of meeting ; 
prepare, conduct and introduce all candidates during 
their initiation; see that all visitors attending the 
Lodge are properly seated ; perform such other duties 
as you or the Lodge may direct, and see that your 
will and pleasure is punctually obeyed. 

W. M. — Worthy Senior, what are your duties? 

W. Sen. — My duties, Worthy Master, are to assist 
the Worthy Chancellor in the discharge of his duties, 
and, in his absence, officiate for him, and to perform 
such other duties as may be required by you or the 
Lodge. 

W. M. — Worthy Gate-keeper, what are your duties ? 

W. G. K. — Worthy Master, my duties are to take 
charge of the outer gate and to prevent any one from 
listening to what is going on inside the Lodge-room; 
to keep all intruders from the Lodge-room door, and 
to allow no person to enter the Lodge or hall door, or 
the ante-room, during the hours of meeting, without 
the proper password, unless ordered to do so by the 
Worthy Master. 



8 Pearson 's Ritual 

W. M. — Worthy Sentinel, what are your duties? 

W. Sent. — Worthy Master, my duties are to take 
charge of the inner gate during the hours of meeting, 
and assist the Worthy Gate-keeper in the discharge 
of his duties, and when he is absent to officiate in that 
office; receive all messages from the Worthy Gate- 
keeper, and report the same to the Worthy Master; 
see that all the officers and members are clothed in 
proper regalia, according to their rank in the Order, 
and are in possession of the proper password before 
entering the Lodge-room, unless otherwise ordered by 
you. 

W. M. — Worthy Chancellor, what are the virtues 
which should adorn the character of every true 
brother of the Royal Knights of David? 

W. Chan. — Honor, temperance, faithfulness, obe- 
dience, meekness, charity and brotherly kindness. 

W. M. — Let our lives and conversation, then be ever 
such as to prove that we possess these virtues, not 
alone in name, but as the governing principles of all 
our actions ; so that while here in our Lodge, we may 
sustain, encourage and strengthen each other in the 
pursuit of good; and in our intercourse with the 
world, impress upon others the value of our prin- 
ciples and thus cause our Order to flourish and blos- 
som as a rose. 

[Worthy Master gives three raps, and all the mem- 
bers rise and sing.] 



Pearson's Ritual 9 

OPENING ODE 

Come, brothers, let us all unite 

To stay the hurtful tide; 
Against the world we'll bravely fight, 

And spread our Order wide. 

Where'er the sun in radiance beams, 

Or man endureth woe, 
Our Order shall send forth its streams 

Till o'er the world they flow. 

W. M. — Brethren, it is meet and right, and our 
bounden duty, at all times and in all places, to give 
thanks unto the God of Love and Peace, in whom we 
live and move and have our continued being. Let 
us ascribe unto Him all honor and glory He has en- 
abled us to accomplish, and the many privileges of 
mercy we have enjoyed; and let us ask His protecting 
care for our present and future peace and prosperity. 
Worthy Chaplain, you will lead us in prayer. 

W. Chap. — Almighty and ever-living God — the 
Creator and Preserver of all mankind, from whom 
cometh every good and perfect gift, and without 
whom nothing can prosper — we thank Thee most 
heartily for the preservation of our lives, and for per- 
mitting us to assemble again within these consecrated 
walls, dedicated to the practice of love, purity and 
charity. Pardon our manifold sins and preserve our 
souls from everlasting punishment. Keep us from all 
bitterness and prejudice; from malice and all un- 
charitableness towards each other. Defend and pro- 
vide for the widows and orphans, and all who are sick 
and afflicted; help and comfort them in every time of 



10 Pearson 's Ritual 

need. We ask Thy blessings upon our present under- 
taking. Be with us while we are assembled here in 
our Lodge-room ; direct us in all our transactions with 
Thy most gracious favor, and let the words of our 
mouths and the meditations of our hearts, while we 
wait before Thee, be acceptable in Thy sight. Bless, 
we most humbly beseech Thee, the officers and mem- 
bers of this Order and this Lodge; bless them spirit- 
ually and temporally, collectively and individually, 
with lasting success, 0, Lord, our strength and our 
Redeemer. We ask all through Jesus Christ, our 
Lord. Amen. 

[All the brethren respond, "Selah."] 

[The Worthy Master gives one rap and all are 
seated.] 

W. M. — Worthy officers and brothers, I solicit your 
assistance and attention in all matters that may be 
presented for your consideration. I now declare 
Lodge, No , duly opened.* 

W. M. — Worthy Recording Secretary, please call 
the roll of officers, and read the minutes of the last 
meeting. 

[The Recording Secretary calls the roll of officers 
and notes the absentees. The minutes are then read, 
and, if no objection is raised, the Worthy Master an- 
nounces that they stand approved. The Sentinel will 
then admit those who may be waiting at the ante- 
room.] 

W. M. — Does any brother present wish to report 
the sickness or distress of any member of this Lodge ? 

Ans f 

* Go through the signs of the degrees in which the Lodge is about to 
open before making this announcement. 

f Members answering the question must rise, address the Worthy 
Master and state the nature of the case. 



Pearson 's Ritual 11 

W. M. — Has any member a friend to propose for 
membership ;n this Lodge? 

Ans ,. 

W. M. — Has any member anything pertaining to 
the welfare of this Lodge, or the Order in general, to 
present ? 

Ans 

[The Lodge will consider the several propositions 
and dispose of each in the order presented, after all 
the questions have been asked, as provided for in the 
Order of Business.] 

INITIATION FIRST DEGREE 

[Applications for membership (previously re- 
ferred) reported upon the applicants balloted for. If 
the candidate is elected, the Lodge will proceed with 
the initiation. During the ceremony there must be a 
solemn silence among the members, broken only by 
responses given at the proper times.] 

W. M. — Worthy Chancellor, please retire to the 
ante-room and ascertain if there is any candidate for 
initiation in the first degree. 

[The Worthy Chancellor salutes the Worthy Master 
by touching the left breast with the right hand ; then 
retires to the ante-room, where, if any candidate is in 
waiting, he receives his name, returns to the Lodge- 
room, salutes the Worthy Master and reports.] 

W. Chan. — Worthy Master, there is in waiting in 
the ante-room [here giving the name in full], who de- 
sires to be initiated in the mysteries of the Royal 
Knights of King David, and become a member of this 
Lodge. 

W. M. — Worthy Recording Secretary, has the ap- 



12 Pearson 's Ritual 

plication been presented, referred and reported upon 
and has the candidate been elected? 

W. R. S. — The application has been properly pre- 
sented, referred and reported upon, and the candidate 
has been duly elected. 

W. M. — Worthy Conductor, you will proceed to 
prepare the candidate for initiation. Worthy Re- 
cording Secretary, you will accompany the Worthy 
Conductor, and if the candidate assents to the re- 
quirements, you will leave him in charge of the 
Worthy Conductor.* 

[The Conductor and Secretary will salute the 
Worthy Master and retire to the ante-room. When 
they have the candidate in their presence, the Con- 
ductor, calling him by name, shall say:] 

W. Con. — We have come to prepare you for the 
rites of initiation. Before proceeding the Recording 
Secretary will ask you a few questions.f 

W. R. S. — Are you desirous of being initiated into 
the mysteries of the Royal Knights of King David? 

Can. — I am. 

W. R. S. — Do you solemnly declare upon your 
honor that you make this application of your own 
free will, and without any impure motive towards 
this Lodge or the Order in general? 

Can. — I do. 

W. R. S. — Stranger, allow me to inform you that 
the virtues which should characterize a true member 
of the Royal Knights of King David are honor, tem- 
perance, faithfulness, obedience, meekness, charity 
and brotherly kindness; and to further this object the 



* If there is more than one candidate, the Worthy Master will appoint 
Conductors for each. 

t Every Lodge must have a book for this purpose. 



Pearson 's Eitual 13 

members of the Royal Knights of King David have 
mutually agreed to associate themselves together, and 
to make provision against the calamities of this life 
by visiting and administering to each other in sickness 
and distress. Are you willing to adhere to, cultivate 
and abide by these principles? 

Can. — I am. 

[The Recording Secretary must take the answers 
in writing as given by the candidate, and every Lodge 
must keep a book for this purpose. The answers 
having been given in the affirmative, the Recording 
Secretary will return to the Lodge-room, salute the 
Worthy Master and report.] 

W. R. S. — Worthy Master, the candidate has 
assented to all the requirements of our Order, and 
is now being prepared by the Worthy Conductor. 

[Recording Secretary then resumes his position.] 

W. M. — Brother Senior, you will please arrange the 
Lodge-room for initiation, and see that everything is 
in place, so as to avoid confusion. 

[The candidate is then prepared for initiation by 
the removal of his hat, coat, vest, collar and necktie, 
and is also blindfolded. After these preparations, 
the Conductor leads the candidate to the Lodge-room 
door and says:] 

W. Con. — Stranger, you are now standing before 
our Lodge-room door; to gain admittance you must 
give one loud rap. 

[The alarm being given, the Sentinel says:] 

W. Sent. — Worthy Master, there is a strange alarm 
at our door. 

W. Sent. — (opening the wicket) — Who comes 
there? 



14 Pearson 's Ritual 

W. Con. — The Conductor, with a candidate who 
conceives a favorable opinion of our Order, and, 
through the recommendation of a brother, asks to be 
initiated into its mysteries and. become a member. 

W. Sent. — Have you satisfied yourself of his fitness 
to enjoy these privileges? 

W. Con. — I have. 

W. Sent. — You will wait until I report your wishes 
to the Worthy Master. 

[The Sentinel, closing the wicket and turning to 
the Worthy Master, says:] 

W. Sent. — Worthy Master, the alarm was caused 
by a stranger, accompanied by the Conductor. The 
stranger, having conceived a favorable opinion of our 
Order, now through the recommendation of a brother, 
asks to be initiated into its mysteries and become a 
member. 

W. M. — Worthy Sentinel, have you satisfied your- 
self of the stranger's fitness to enjoy the privilege? 

W. Sent. — I find him worthy. 

W. M. — Worthy Sentinel, receive the password 
from the Conductor and admit him and the stranger. 

[The Sentinel gives three raps upon the inside of 
the door, and is answered by a like number from the 
Conductor on the outside. The Sentinel opens the 
wicket, and the Conductor whispers the password, 
after which the Sentinel closes the wicket and opens 
the door. As the stranger enters, smite him over the 
right shoulder, saying:] 

Stranger, you are received here upon our rule, 
which is given us from the Holy Scriptures, and is 
known as the Golden Rule. The rule is an instru- 
ment used by the workman to lay off his work; but 



Pearson '& Ritual 15 

we, as Royal Knights of King David, are to make use 
of it in laying out our duties of life. This rule is 
twenty-four inches long, and can be equally divided 
into three distinct parts. The first part represents 
our duty to God, the All- wise Creator; to Him all 
honor and praise belongs. The second part is our 
duty to our fellowmen. "Do unto all men as ye 
would they should do unto you," but more especially 
should this part apply to your brothers in this Order. 
The third part teaches us the noble qualities of mercy 
and charity, especially toward the poor. Brother, 
remember the rule, and so may you keep it forever. 

[Conductor escorts the candidate around the hall 
three times. Stopping at the Senior station, the Con- 
ductor stamps on the floor three times with his heel.] 

Jun. — Who comes here, trespassing within our 
secret enclosure? 

W. Con. — A stranger seeking employment. 

Jun. — By what token may we prove him? 

W. Con. — By the Signet of King David. 

Jun. — You have my approval. You will pass the 
stranger on to the Worthy Chancellor, in the west, 
for his approval. 

[Conductor and candidate pass on to the Chan- 
cellor station, arrived at which the Conductor gives 
the same signal as at the Senior station.] 

W. Sent. — Who comes here? 

W. Con. — A stranger seeking employment in the 
field of labor. 

W. Sent.— -Stranger, they that will not plow by 
reason of the cold shall have no joyful harvest; and 
he that followeth after vain persons is void of under- 
standing. The diligent shall be a ruler, but the sloth- 



16 Pearson's Ritual 

ful man shall be under tribute. Happy is the man 
that findeth wisdom and getteth understanding for 
they are better than silver or fine gold. My friend, 
what wages do you expect? 

Can. — The instruction of wisdom, and not silver; 
knowledge rather than fine gold. 

W. Sent. — Conductor, are you well satisfied with 
the fidelity of the stranger? 

W. Con. — I am. 

W. Sent. — Stranger, is it of your own free will 
that you desire to unite with us? 

Can. — It is. 

W. Sent. — It is well. Conductor, you will convey 
him to our Worthy Master, in the east, for further 
instruction. 

W. M. — Who is this stranger? 

W. Con. — One who desires to be enrolled as a 
laborer. 

W. M. — Are you willing to labor in our vineyard? 

Can. — I am. 

W. M. — We have confidence that you will perse- 
vere, but before you can proceed, the Conductor will 
conduct you to the altar and place you in a position 
to take upon yourself the solemn oath of a labor 
workman. 

[Hold in your left hand the foot rule, and hold the 
right hand as in the act of cutting the Bible in half. 
Remain in that position until the obligation is fin- 
ished.] 

Jun. — Worthy Master, the stranger is now in posi- 
tion to take the solemn oath and obligation of a 
workman. 

W. M. — Stranger, I, as the Master of this Lodge, 



Pearson 's Kitual. 17 

take pleasure in informing you that there is nothing 
in our obligation that will conflict with any duty 
that you may owe to your God, your country or 
your family. If you are willing, repeat after me the 
following : 

OBLIGATION 

"I , do solemnly declare that I will not 

reveal any secret or business of this Order to any 
person, except those whom I know (from the proper 
tests) to be true and loyal members of the same. I 
promise to support the laws and constitution of the 
Supreme Grand Lodge that now is or may hereafter 
be. I promise never to envy a member of this Order, 
but will be friendly and kind to all, that the peace 
and harmony of the brotherhood may be promoted. 
I will never plot against a member of this Order, or 
any of his family; nor will I talk against a brother 
workman. If I hear of any brother being in trouble, 
I promise to contribute not less than ten cents to- 
wards the alleviation of his distress. I will apprise 
brethren of any and all danger threatening them that 
may come to my knowledge concerning them. Bind- 
ing myself under this solemn obligation, may the axe 
of justice hew me down, and I be forever forgotten 
among the just should I wilfully violate it." 

W. M. — Stranger, detach your hand and kiss the 
Bible one time. Brother, you will now attend, and 
I will confer upon you some of the secrets by which 
you will be known in any part of the world: 

Day Sign of Distress, — Put the thumb of the right 
hand to the mouth and the forefinger to the right eye, 
thus * * * meaning, "I hail." Answer. — Fore- 
finger to- the right ear, meaning, "I hear the sound." 



18 Pearson's Ritual 

Night Sign of Distress. — You will cry out, three 
times, "Play fair." Answer. — Cry out three times, 
"Fair play." 

GRIPS 

Shake hands as usual, with the thumbs side by side. 

Member (to stranger). — I challenge you. 

Stranger. — By what do you challenge? 

Member. — By the rule. 

Stranger. — How shall I proceed — orally, or letter 
it? 

Member. — Letter it. 

Stranger. — B — j — o — h — n. 

[Member pronounces it "John."] 

Member. — Are you a workman? 

Stranger. — I am. 

Member. — How am I to know you? 

Stranger. — By my fruit. 

Member. — Why by your fruit? 

Stranger. — Because it is good fruit, and upon it 
I was suffered to pass into the vineyard as a good 
workman. 

Member. — Have you any other tokens or signs by 
which you are distinguished? 

Stranger. — I have many. 

Member. — Present them. 

[Stranger unites both hands and places himself in 
the attitude of cutting down a tree, letting the hands 
fall quickly by the side.] 

TESTING SIGNS 

If on the highway or in an assembly, and you want 
to find out if any members are there, rub your nose 



Pearson's Ritual 19 

(as if it were itching) with your hand. The answer 
is to rub the corner of the right eye. 

CALLING ATTENTION 

Snap your second finger and thumb three times. 
The answer is one snap. 

RAPS 

At the first door give two raps, and the answer will 
be the same; after which, give half the password. 
Then advance to the inner door, giving one rap, and 
the answer will be the same in return; then give the 
other part of the password. 

SALUTATION 

Salute the three stationed officers. If the compasses 
have both points under the rule, the house is in the 
first degree. You will give the sign of the Axeman — 
first to the Worthy Master, next to the Chancellor, 
and last to the Senior. You will then be seated. 

W. M. — Brother Chancellor, you will please pre- 
pare the newly-made brother for instruction in the 
use of the tools of labor. 

[The Worthy Chancellor dresses the brother with 
apron and white gloves, conducts him to the Worthy 
Master, and says:] 

W. Sent. — Worthy Master, the brother is now 
ready and awaits your further instruction. 

W. M. — My brother, you are now dressed in your 
proper regalia. I take pleasure in presenting you 
with the pouch, an emblem of our Order. Its contents 
are, as you observe, a memorandum book and pencil. 
The object of the book is easily understood. While 
searching for knowledge, you naturally encounter 



20 Pearson 's Ritual 

many new and useful ideas, which should be noted 
down, that they may not be lost. By placing them 
there you may refer to them at any time with profit 
as well as pleasure. Remember that new ideas are the 
foundation of progress. The working tool of the 
laborer is the axe. With the axe we cut away ob- 
structions in the vineyard, and prepare timber for 
use. Its use is emblematic of perseverance in remov- 
ing obstacles, for, as by repeated strokes it forces 
its way through the hardest wood, so may we, by 
repeated trials, surmount every obstacle in this 
unfriendly world. I now present you with this 
regalia; may you ever let your character be, like it, 
pure, and undefiled. Strive always to keep your 
garments free from stain. I now greet you as a 
worthy laborer, and charge you ever to keep in 
remembrance the pledge you have given, and regulate 
your future by the dictates of wisdom and virtue. 
Brother Senior, you will declare a recess of fifteen 
minutes, that the brethren may refresh themselves 
and become acquainted with our newly-made brother. 

Senior — (giving one rap) — 0, yes! 0, yes! 0, yes! 

Lodge No , Royal Knights of King David, is now 

called from labor to refreshment for fifteen minutes. 

[The call from refreshment to labor is the same. 
No opening service is required, as the Lodge has not 
been closed.] 

AFTER RECESS — WORK IN SECOND DEGREE 

W. Sent. — Worthy Master, there is an alarm at 
the gate of our vineyard. 

W. M. — Attend the alarm. 

W. Sent. — Who comes here, interrupting us while 
we are at peaceful labor? 



Pearson 's Ritual 21 

W. Con. — A brother who, having labored in clear- 
ing the vineyard and preparing the soil, now seeks 
instruction in planting and cultivating. 

W. Sent. — He will have to wait until our Worthy 
Master is informed of his desire. 

W. Sent. — Worthy Master, there is in waiting at 
our vineyard gate a brother, who, having prepared 
the soil, now comes seeking further instruction in 
planting and cultivating as master laborer. 

W. M. — Has he been duly and truly recommended? 

W. Sent. — He has. 

W. M. — Has he made the proper proficiency in the 
preceding degree? 

W. Sent. — He has. 

W. M.— What further right has he to present that 
will entitle him to enter our vineyard? 

W. Sent. — By bringing forth good fruit. 

W. M. — Does he bring forth good fruit? 

W. Sent. — He does. 

W. M. — Let him enter. 

[As the candidate enters, the following ode shall 
be sung:] 

ODE 

All hail the power of Jesus' name, 

Let angels prostrate fall; 
Bring forth the Royal diadem, 

And crown Him Lord of all. 

Let every kindred, every tribe, 

On this terrestrial ball, 
To Him all majesty ascribe, 

And crown Him Lord of all. 



22 Pearson's Kitual 

Oh, that with yonder sacred throng, 

We at His feet may fall, 
We'll join the everlasting song, 

And crown Him Lord of all. 

[Conductor escorts candidate around the room 
twice, halting the second time at the Senior station.] 

W. Senior — Who comes here, trespassing in our 
vineyard ? 

W. Con.— A brother who has served faithfully as 
a laborer, and is now seeking further instruction. 

W. M. — Is he honest, diligent and faithful? 

W. Senior — He is honest to his brethren, faithful 
to his pledge and diligent in labor. 

W. M. — By what further right? 

W. Senior — By doing his duty. 

W. M. — Let him enter. 

W. Sent. — (opening the door) — Brother, your rec- 
ommendation being good, you can enter. 

[Candidate is conducted to the Senior station.] 

W. Senior — Who comes here? 

W. Con. — A laborer on his way to the vineyard. 

W. Senior — Is he kind to the poor and charitable 

to all? 

W. Con.— He is. 

W. Senior — You can pass through the gate of our 
vineyard unto the Chancellor, for this instruction. 

W. Chan. — Who trespasses upon our enclosure? 

W. Con. — A brother seeking instruction. 

W. Chan. — Brother, the spring seeds teach us 
benevolence, the growing plants teach us kindness, 
and every operation of the husbandman begets re- 
finement of feelings and kindly sentiments, bringing! 



Pearson's Ritual 23 

us into close communion with our great Creator. 
Therefore, be unselfish ; do good, looking for nothing 
in return, and your reward shall be sure. Love your 
brethren, fervently and purely. Impress upon your 
heart the teaching of St. Paul: "Though I speak 
with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not 
charity, I am become as a sounding brass or a tinkling 
cymbal/' The candidate has my approval, Worthy 
Conductor, and you will pass him to our Worthy 
Master for instruction. 

W. M. — Whom bring you here? 

W. Con. — A brother seeking instruction. 

W. M. — Has he been obligated? 

W. Con. — Not in this degree. 

W. M. — Conductor, you will convey the brother to 
the altar, and place him in due position to take upon 
himself the obligation of the second degree. 

[Conductor places his right hand upon the Bible 
and left hand upon his heart, and the candidate 
kneels upon his right knee, after which the Conductor 
announces that the candidate awaits the pleasure of 
the Worthy Master.] 

W. M. — Before you advance further, it is necessary 
that you take upon yourself the obligation of the 
second degree. If you are willing, repeat after me 
the obligation. 

[Worthy Master raps and calls up the Lodge.] 

OBLIGATION 

"I, , do most solemnly swear, before God 

and this assemblage, that I will never reveal the 
secrets of this degree, or any business transacted in 
it, to any person not entitled to know the same. I 



24 Pearson 's Ritual 

further promise to protect all members of this degree, 
and will, should any of them be in distress, contrib- 
ute not less than twenty cents to their assistance. I 
will never talk against a member of this Order, es- 
pecially of this degree. I promise to shield and warn 
them of all danger threatening them that may come 
to my knowledge. I further promise never to under- 
mine a member, intentionally, or defeat him in any 
of his plans. I promise to do all in my power for the 
peace and harmony of the entire Order. I will sup- 
port and protect the laws and constitution of this 
Order. I will not cheat or defraud this Lodge, or 
any other Lodge of which I may become a member, 
or a member of the Order. So help me God." 
[Candidate kisses the Bible.] 

ODE 

These are the joys that satisfy 

And purify the mind, 
Which make the spirit mountain high, 

And leave the world behind. 

W. M. — Brother, we will now teach you how to 
plant the seed. Observe these kernels of corn: they 
are inanimate, but the future plant is there. We 
open the soil, and bury the seed, thus # * Let 
these leave an everlasting impression upon your mind 
of the truth of the soul's immortality. There is no 
other object in nature which life and death appar- 
ently come so near together as the grains of seed cast 
into the ground ; yet, when life seems extinct, a richer 
and fuller existence is beginning. From this little 
seed we get, first the blade, next the tender shoot, and 
then the full corn in the ear. And so it is with our 



Pearson 's Ritual 25 

minds, wherein we plant the seed of knowledge. As 
we sow, so we shall reap. Let us enrich our minds 
with the virtues of love, truth and charity, which 
never fails to add vigor and happiness to life. May 
you so conduct yourself in this life that when the 
final harvest shall come you will be gathered as the 
ripened grain into the garner, and found worthy of 
the care of your Heavenly Father. 

Conductor, you will escort the brother to the 
Worthy Chancellor, who will further instruct him, 

ODE 

Help us to watch and pray, 

And on Thyself rely, 
Assured, if we our trust betray, 

We shall forever die. 

W. Con. — Worthy Chancellor, our brother is now 
ready to be instructed in the use of the tool used in 
this degree. 

W. Chan. — My brother, the pruning-knife is the 
working tool of this degree. The pruning-knife is for 
removing useless and harmful growths from trees, 
plants and vines. This should remind you of the re- 
straint necessary to enable you to improve the mind 
and keep your passions within due bounds, letting not 
fancy lead you astray after the vanities and vices of 
the world, constantly remembering that, as a laborer 
and cultivator in the vineyard, mental and moral 
worth ranks above worldly wealth and honor. May 
you cut off from your mind all hatred, vice and 
malice. Those are dead branches, and will prevent 
the yield of good fruit. 

I will now instruct you in the signals and pass- 
word. 



26 Pearson's Ritual 

The hailing signs and tests in this degree are the 
same as in the first. 

SALUTATION 

Thus you give the sign of the pruner: Form left 
hand as in the act of taking hold of a limb, and the 
right as if in using the knife. 

GRIP 

Squeeze the right hand once, holding the hand as 
usual. The test-word is "Hold fast." The signal is 
the same as in the first degree. 

Conductor, escort the brother to our Senior. In- 
form that officer that it is my will and pleasure for 
him to dress our newly-made brother and introduce 
him to the members present. 

W. Con. — Worthy Senior, it is the will and pleas- 
ure of our Worthy Master for you to dress our newly- 
made brother and introduce him to those present. 

W. Sen. — My brother, I now present you with this 
regalia [putting it on candidate], which is scarlet 
red. May you ever wear it with honor to yourself 
and credit to the fraternity. It will teach you to 
keep your heart aglow with love. 

[Worthy Senior gives one rap and calls up the 
Lodge, saying: "Brethren, behold your brother; 
brother, behold the brethren." All are then seated.] 

W. M. — Worthy Senior Chancellor, please call the 
Lodge from labor to refreshment for the space of 
twenty minutes. [See unwritten work.] 

THIRD DEGREE 

[Preparing for this degree, the hall must be all 
clean, and the candidate must be divested of all 



Pearson 's Ritual 27 

wearing apparel except underwear and must be 
barefooted, and blindfolded securely. When every- 
thing is ready, the Conductor will let it be known. 
Coming to the inner door he will give three distinct 
raps.] 

W. Sent. — Worthy Master, there is an alarm at 
the third gate of our vineyard. 

W. M. — Attend and find the cause. 

W. Sent. — Who gives the alarm at the third gate? 

W. Con. — A brother who, having served faithfully 
as a laborer and cultivator, seeks now to be elevated 
to the Harvester's Degree. 

W. Sent. — Has he made sufficient progress in the 
previous degrees? 

W. Con. — He has. 

W. Sent. — Let him tarry until our Worthy Master 
is informed of his desire. 

W. Sent. — Worthy Master, a brother who has 
served his time as a laborer and cultivator in our 
vineyard, comes seeking to be elevated to the Har- 
vester's Degree. 

W. M. — Admit him in the name of the Master. 

W. Sent. — You are admitted in the name of our 
Master. Welcome to our vineyard, and you may find 
shelter from the scorching sun and rest from all care. 

[Worthy Conductor enters, moving slowly around 
the room; all the lights are lowered and everything 
silent. The members, all at once, break out in song.] 

ODE 

Welcome, stranger, true hearts greet thee, 

If thou by our precepts stand; 
Honor, truth and friendship greet thee, 

Welcome to our happy band. 



28 Pearson 's Eitual 

Welcome to our healthful fountain, 

May'st thou ever faithful prove, 
Till from every vale and mountain 

Rolls the stream of peace and love. 

1. Seat the candidate. 

2. Run him up and down the room quickly, leaving 
him alone for a while, during which time there should 
be clashing of swords and rolling of balls on the 
floor, ringing and casting down chains, and great 
tumult. 

3. Place him in the South, with a staff in his hand, 
saying, c ' Stranger, the greatest lesson we ever learned 
is from a blind man. He goes through the world, not 
heedlessly, but feels his way with his staff, which also 
teaches us that if we meet up with any obstacle to 
apply the staff." 

4. The Conductor then says : "I was your con- 
ductor in the first and second degrees, but in this 
degree you must go alone. There is danger on the 
way, for many have started out on this tour whose 
lives were lost." All members groan at these words, 
and the candidate starts off alone. 

W. M. — Candidate, get down on your knees and 
make your last prayer, and when you have ended 
your prayer, cry out, Amen. Can you ride the goat? 
Get on. 

W. Chan. — Candidate, you are about to take a 
ride. Have you ever heard of Jacob's ladder? 

W. Con. — I have. 

W. Chan. — How many rounds has it? 

W. Con.— Three. 

W. Senior — Name them. 

[W. Conductor says to candidate, " Faith!" As 



Pearson 's Ritual 29 

the Conductor pronounces the word, Senior gives 
one blow with the spanker.] 

W. Chan. — What is the second? 

Can. — Hope. [Blow with spanker.] 

W. Chan.— What is the third? 

Can. — Charity. [Blow with spanker.] 

[All say, "Good! good member of charity."] 

[Take candidate to the center of the hall, and touch 
him in the breast with the point of a sword, saying, 
Stranger, now be calm and sober. When I count 
three you must jump for your life. Be sure to jump 
high and clear; for there is an abyss just before you, 
and one false step will cause you to lose your life. 
Brethren, be cautious; let him have a clear jump. 
Now, stranger, as I count 'one, ' get ready; 'two,' be 
sure you are ready; ' three, ' jump!"] 

W. M. — "Well done, thou good and faithful ser- 
vant ; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will 
make thee ruler over many things; enter into the 
joys of thy Lord." Conductor, you will convey the 
candidate to the altar and place him in position to 
receive the obligation of the third degree. Candidate, 
you will raise both hands to heaven and call your 
name after me. 

OBLIGATION 

"I, , do most solemnly promise in the 

presence of God and these true and tried knights, 
never to reveal any of the secrets of this degree to 
any person except those whom I know to be true and 
tried members. 

I further promise and swear, that I will not print 
or cause to be printed or circulated, any books 
containing the mysteries of the Royal Knights of 
King David. 



30 Pearson 's Ritual 

I further promise that I will conduct myself in 
such manner as to reflect credit on the Order. 

I further promise and swear that I will never 
knowingly have any connection with a brother's 
wife; or with his mother, sister or daughter, except 
in marriage. 

I further promise to defend and protect all true 
brothers of this Order, and to assist them in the 
hour of distress as far as my ability will allow — that 
is, when the distress is not brought on by their evil 
conduct. 

I further promise to keep a brother's secret in my 
own breast, and never reveal it until death, except in 
case of absolute necessity. 

I further promise that I will do all in my power 
for the upbuilding of the Royal Knights of King 
David everywhere. 

I further promise to patronize members of this 
Order in business, when they are as reasonable as 
others. 

1 further promise that I will support the General 
Laws and Constitution of this Order that is now and 
that may be hereafter. 

I further promise to obey all summons from the 
S. G. M. or S. G. S. which do not conflict with my 
religion or my rights as a citizen. 

I further promise that I will pay strict attention 
to any member who is sick or in distress, and will 
help him and remember him in my prayers. 

I further promise that I will recognize all signs 
and tokens given me by a member of this Order in 
good standing. 

I further promise that I will do all in my power 
for the peace and harmony of this Lodge. 



Pearson 's Ritual 31 

Under all of these obligations I bind myself till 
death; and should I knowingly violate any of them, 
may the sickle of death cut me down ; and I be forever 
forgotten among men and angels. So help me God. 

W. M. — Stranger, detach your hands and kiss the 
Bible three times. 

[Worthy Conductor escorts the candidate around 
the room, while all unite in singing.] 

ODE 

Blest be the tie that binds 

Our hearts in Christian love, 
The fellowship of kindred minds 

Is like to that above. 

W. Con. — (stopping with candidate at Senior 
stand) — Worthy Senior, our brother comes for in- 
struction which will enable him to become a har- 
vester. 

W. Sen. — Brother, as a harvester I enjoin you to 
reap for the soul as well as for the body. The world 
of nature teems with life, and nothing has been made 
in vain. Each living creature, each running stream, 
each growing plant, all have their divinely appointed 
purpose. Cultivate an observing mind, that you may 
acquire wisdom and have the pleasure of diffusing 
knowledge to your brethren. You will now be con- 
ducted to our Worthy Chancellor. 

W. Chan. — Brother, all honest labor is commend- 
able. God, in making the earth, set the example of 
work and made it honorable. It is, therefore, our 
duty to honor and dignify it, that we may minister 
to the happiness of God's creatures. May you labor 



32 Pearson's Eitual 

cheerfully in the harvest field which you are about to 
enter. Cheerfulness is the great balm for wearied 
and distressed minds. Ever look for brighter and 
better days, and mourn not over the past. While 
striving to make labor honorable, endeavor, also, to 
make it pleasant for all around you. You will now 
be conducted to the Worthy Chaplain. 

W. Con. — Worthy Chaplain, I present you our 
brother for further instruction. 

W. Chap. — Brother, the vineyard is our chief place 
of labor, and it is now white unto the harvest. He 
that reapeth receiveth wages and gathereth fruit 
unto life eternal, that both he that soweth and he 
that reapeth may rejoice. Be patient and contented 
in your labors, remembering that Godliness with 
contentment is great gain. Such are the high aims, 
works and rewards of the true laborer. To these I 
now bid you welcome. You will pass to the Worthy 
Master for his instruction. 

W. M. — I will now instruct you in the signs, grips, 
salutations, etc. 

SIGNS OP DISTRESS 

Day Sign of Distress. — Extend both hands from 
your side three times; then let your hands fall 
helpless by your side. Should a member see you, 
he will come to your relief; and should you see a 
member making such sign, you must go to his relief. 

Night Sign of Distress. — Cry out, three times : ! 
Absalom, my son, my son. [You may use these 
words in the daytime where the signs can not be 
recognized.] 

GRIPS 

Take hold of the right hand, placing the thumb 



Pearson 's Ritual 33 

upon the second joint of the forefinger, then pass the 
humb down the knuckles of the fingers. 

SALUTATION 

In this degree both points of the compass are 
elevated above the rule. Salute as if reaping down 
grain. 

RAPS 

Same as in second degree. 

W. M. — I now present you with this regalia, which 
is pink and green. The pink is noted for its beautiful 
color. May you be noted for the good work which, 
as a laborer, you should do. The green should remind 
you of that beautiful season, the time of planting. 
May you take hold of every opportunity and sow 
the seed of knowledge everywhere. 

Brother, I now present you with the sickle. This 
is, like all other tools we use, ancient and honorable. 
As an emblem of our Order, none is more appropriate 
than the sickle. It speaks of peace and prosperity, 
and is the harbinger of joy; and with it, my brother, 
you can go forth reaping down every obstacle and 
dispensing the seed of knowledge. And when the 
angel reapers shall come to gather the harvest may 
you be found worthy of a place in the great garner 
of good above. As the day is far spent, you will now 
be introduced to the brethren in the vineyard and 
join them in the harvest as they are returning from 
their labors. 

[The Worthy Master will then call up the Lodge, 
and the members will form a procession and march 
around the hall, singing the Harvest Ode. When 



34 Pearson's Ritual 

opposite the newly-made brother he will unite with 
the procession.] 

Tune:— "My Country, 'Tis of Thee" 

Brothers, ere we depart 
Let us join hand and heart 

In this our cause. 
May our next meeting be 
Blest with sweet charity, 
Honor and secrecy, 

Royal Knights all. 

United heart and hand, 
Long may our friendly band 

Deserve applause. 
May Royal Knights all be 
Famed for sincerity — 
Still may prosperity 

Stand by our cause. 

[The newly-made member then signs his name to 
the roll on the Worthy Recording Secretary's book, 
and all are seated.] 



^INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS 



Subordinate Lodges 



W. M. — Officers and members, we have met on this 
occasion to install the officers of this Lodge. Let lis 
first invoke the blessings of God. 

[Worthy Master gives three raps, at which all the 
members rise to their feet.] 

"W. Chap. — Almighty Father, Creator of the Uni- 
verse, Giver of every good and perfect gift, we 
beseech Thee to be with us on this occasion, and bless 
those who may be installed ks officers of this Lodge, 
and endow them with wisdom and discretion. Be 
with all the officers of the Supreme Grand Lodge 
and the entire Order, and aid us in extending its 
benefits to every part of our land. Bless all orders 
and associations having for their object the ameliora- 
tion of the condition of the widows and orphans and 
of suffering humanity everywhere. We ask all for 
the Redeemer's sake. Amen. 

[Worthy Master gives one rap and all are seated. 
The officers-elect will be seated at the left of the 
altar.] 

W. M. — Brethren, I solicit your earnest attention 
to our worthy brother who has been authorized to 
install our officers. 

[An original address may, if practicable, be 
delivered before the installation takes place.] 



* Any Past Worthy Master can install the officers in a Subordinate 
Lodge. 



36 Pearson 's Ritual 

I. 0. — I am clothed with the power to install your 
officers. Reposing confidence in yon, and believing 
that you will strive to add dignity to your position 
by correct deportment, your brethren have chosen 
you as their leaders for the ensuing term. 

Brother Recording Secretary, are all these brethren 
clear of the books? 

R. S.— They are. 

I. 0. — Have they been duly elected? 

R. S.— They have. 

I. 0. — (addressing the Lodge.) — Is it your will and 

pleasure that Brother be installed "Worthy 

Master of your Lodge? 

All. — It is our will. 

I. 0. — The Chancellor and Senior will please con- 
duct the brethren to our most holy altar to take upon 
tliemselves the obligation of officers. 

[All assemble around the stand, forming a circle.] 

I. 0. — Brethren, place your right hand upon your 
heart, from which all good and faithful men speak. 
Call your name. 

OBLIGATION 

Having been elected to the office of , I do 

here, from a pure and clean heart, solemnly pledge 
my honor to perform my duties in this office to the 
best of my ability. I further promise to attend all 
meetings regularly, and do all in my power for the 
peace and harmony of the Lodge. I promise to give 
justice to all, regardless of friends or relations. I 
promise to faithfully discharge the duties of my office 
until my successor is elected and installed. I will 
support the Constitution and General Claims of the 
Supreme Grand Lodge and the By-Laws of this 



Pearson's Ritual 37 

Lodge, and will inculcate a strict obedience to all the 
laws and edicts emanating from the proper officers. 
I promise to use all my influence for the upbuilding 
of this Order, and will never attempt, by word or 
deed, to change this into any other Order. So help 
me, God. 

I. 0. — (to the Worthy Master.) — Brother, in per- 
forming your duties, I would impress upon your 
mind the importance of your position. You will be 
foremost in advocating the principles and carrying 
out the objects of our Order. To you the members 
will look for example, and those without our portal 
will scrutinize your every act. Encourage improve- 
ment, and urge your brethren to persevere in the 
pursuit of every good work, and your reward will be 
sure. I now clothe you with your regalia as Worthy 

Master of this Lodge, known as ...Lodge, No , 

Eoyal Knights of King David, and deliver unto you 
the gavel of the Worthy Master, and place in your 
hands the Constitution, General Laws, By-Laws and 
Eitual. May you add honor and dignity to the 
position in which the confidence of your brethren has 
placed you. I now extend to you the right hand of 
fellowship in behalf of the Supreme Grand Master 
of the Royal Knights of King David, and bid you 
welcome to your reward and promotion. May the 
God of Love protect and bless you; and finally, my 
brother, when your career on earth shall end, may 
you hear the welcome words, "Well done, thou good 
and faithful servant." 

[Members will all cry out, "So may it be forever. ? ' 
After which the newly-elected Worthy Master will be 
escorted to his station and seated.] 



38 Pearson's Eitual 

Each officer shall be presented in the following 
manner by the proper officer: 

Most Respected Past Worthy Master — I present 
you my worthy brother, who has been elected to the 

office of of Lodge, No , Eoyal Knights of 

King David. I believe he will exert his best en- 
deavors to advance the interest of this Lodge and 
the Order in general, and that he will discharge his 

duties as with a faithful adherence to all the 

laws, rules and regulations of the Order. 

[Present the Worthy Chancellor.] 

I. 0. — Brother, you have been elected Worthy 
Chancellor of this Lodge. Your duties are to assist 
the Worthy Master in the government of the Lodge, 
and in his absence take charge and act for him. 
Your regular attendance is very much to be desired. 
It is expected that you will faithfully discharge the 
duties imposed upon you as Worthy Chancellor of 
this Lodge. Do you promise, in addition to all other 
obligations that you have made, to use your best 
efforts in promoting the peace and harmony of this 
Lodge, and endeavor to create love among its mem- 
bers? 

W. Chan.— I do. 

I. 0. — I therefore invest you with the badge of 
your office. In receiving it, it is hoped that you will 
not cease to remember that the preference of the 
Lodge has placed upon you in the full confidence 
that while you wear it its purity shall receive no 
blemish. I present you these laws, which you will 
study in order that you may assist the Worthy 
Master. I also present you with the gavel, which 
indicates that you are to assist in conducting the 
business of the Lodge. I therefore proclaim you 



Pearson 's Ritual 39 

Worthy Chancellor of Lodge, No... , Royal 

Knights of King David. 

[The Recording Scribe will then be presented.] 

I. 0. — Brother, you have been elected Worthy 
Recording Scribe of this Lodge. It is your duty to 
keep a just and true record of all the proceedings, 
make out and forward all reports and other com- 
munications to the Supreme Grand Lodge; take 
charge of the seal, keep the records, conduct the 
correspondence of the Lodge during your term of 
office. It is your duty to regularly, fairly and faith- 
fully receive all moneys due the Lodge, and at once 
pay the same into the hands of the Treasurer and 
take his receipt for the same; to keep the accounts 
between the Lodge and its members equally balanced ; 
to write orders for moneys when ordered so to do 
by the Worthy Master of the Lodge. I invest you 
with the badge of your office and present you the 
books and papers and seal thereof. And now I pro- 
claim you Recording Scribe of Lodge, No , 

Royal Knights of King David. 

[Treasurer presented.] 

I. 0. — Brother, you are elected Worthy Treasurer 
of this Lodge. The qualities that should recommend 
a Treasurer are accuracy and fidelity. It is your 
duty to receive all moneys collected by the Worthy 
Recording Scribe for this Lodge, giving receipts for 
the same, and keep an exact and true account of all 
moneys received, paying out money only on orders 
bearing the signatures of the Worthy Master and the 
Worthy Recording Scribe, with the seal of the Lodge 
attached. I have no doubt that the confidence re- 
posed in you will excite you to that faithfulness in 
the discharge of the duties of your office which their 



40 Pearson '$ Ritual 

important nature demands. I therefore invest you 
with the badge of your office. The responsibility of 
the office will always admonish you of the necessity 
of preserving free from tarnish your honor and repu- 
tation. You will receive from me the books of your 

office. I now proclaim you Worthy Treasurer of 

Lodge, No , Royal Knights of King David. 

[Worthy Conductor presented.] 

I. 0. — Brother, I need not remind you that your 
station is of great importance. It is your duty, as 
Conductor, to wait on the officers and members dur- 
ing the hours of meeting ; be careful in preparing and 
conducting candidates during their initiation, and 
although you halt at the door of the Lodge, lead 
those rightly who require it. The importance of your 
position requires your regular and early attendance. 
I now invest you with the badge of your office, and 

proclaim you Worthy Conductor of Lodge, No , 

Royal Knights of King David. 

[Gate-keeper presented.] 

I. 0. — Brother, you have been elected to the office 
of Gate-keeper. I need not remind you that yours 
is regarded as a very important office. It is your 
duty to take charge of the ante-room and to prevent 
any one listening to what is going on inside the 
Lodge; to keep off all intruders, and allow no per- 
son to enter the ante-room, without the proper pass- 
word, during the hours of meeting unless ordered so 
to do by the Worthy Master. Your regular and early 
attendance on the Lodge will be a sure proof of your 
attachment to it. I invest you with this regalia, and 
present you the insignia of your office and proclaim 



Pearson 's Ritual 41 

you Worthy Gate-keeper of Lodge, No , Royal 

Knights of King David. 

[Worthy Sentinel presented.] 

I. 0. — Brother, you are elected Worthy Sentinel 
of this Lodge. It is your duty to take charge of the 
inner door during the hours of meeting and to assist 
the Worthy Gate-keeper in the discharge of his duty, 
and when he is absent to officiate in that office; to 
receive all messages from the Gate-keeper and report 
the same to the Worthy Master; to see that all the 
officers are clothed in proper regalia according to 
their rank, and are in their proper positions; to see 
that no one enters who have not the proper pass- 
word, unless permission be first received from the 
Worthy Master. A faithful discharge of your duty 
is a necessity of the Order, and your constant at- 
tendance upon the Lodge can not be dispensed with 
except by permission of the same. I now proclaim 

you Worthy Sentinel of Lodge, No , Royal 

Knights of King David. 

[Worthy Chaplain presented.] 

Brother, you are elected Worthy Chaplain of this 
Lodge. I do not presume to instruct you in the 
duties, which you are familiar with. Your inclina- 
tion will undoubtedly harmonize with the duty which 
you are to perform in the Lodge chamber in those 
solemn services which created beings should con- 
stantly render to their Creator. You should visit the 
sick and distressed and try to direct them to that 
source from which all true happiness flows. With 
pleasure, brother, I now invest you with this badge 
and present you with this emblem of your office, and 

proclaim you Worthy Chaplain of Lodge, No , 

Royal Knights of King David. 



42 Pearson 's Ritual 

NEW LODGES 

FORM OF OPENING, CONSTITUTING AND CONSECRATING 

When a committee has been appointed to establish 
a new Lodge of this Order, the committee shall assem- 
ble at the place where the new Lodge is to be located, 
in some convenient room, and may be accompanied by 
other members of good standing who feel disposed to 
attend, as provided for in the several laws, rules and 
regulations. The candidates to be initiated into the 
Order shall be in waiting in the ante-room, or some 
other convenient place. The chairman of the commit- 
tee shall act as the Worthy Master and appoint all 
other officers pro tern from the committee and visiting 
members, if any present, who shall act in the said 
offices until the members composing the association 
have been initiated and the officers and other members 
have received the degrees and been duly installed. 
The committee shall see that the room is properly 
arranged, with all the implements necessary. 

The following shall be the order of business: 

1. The Worthy Master shall open the Lodge in 
regular form. 

2. Initiation of members of the association. 

3. Conferring the degrees upon the officers and 
such other members of the new Lodge as may desire 
them, provided they comply with the laws, rules and 
regulations of the Order as laid down in the Ritual 
and General Laws. 

4. Installing of officers. 

5. After the installation the chairman of the com- 
mittee will deliver, or cause to be delivered by some 



Pearson 's Ritual 43 

ompetent Past "Worthy Master, the dedicatory ad- 
ress. 

6. After the address, the consecration of the Lodge 
krill take place. 

FORM OF CONSECRATING A NEW LODGE 

The Supreme Grand Master or the Supreme Grand 
deputy Master shall commence the consecration cere- 
nonies by giving one rap with the gavel, and saying : 
6 Brothers, an application having been made to the 
Supreme Grand Lodge for a charter to establish a 
new Lodge in connection with our Order, I will pro- 
eed to consecrate the proposed Lodge, No " 

[The Chaplain will read the 122d Psalm, after 
which the Worthy Master will give three raps, which 
will call up the Lodge. Three vessels, one containing 
earth, one corn, and one water, shall then be placed 
on the center of the altar. Having appointed two 
additional Past Worthy Masters, each one takes a ves- 
sel, beginning with the Supreme Grand Master, who 
takes the vessel containing the earth, while the other 
Past Grand Master takes those containing the corn 
and water. The officers and members of the new 
Lodge will then form a procession, headed by the 
three officers above named carrying the said vessels, 
and all will march around the Lodge room three 
times, while the following ode is being sung:] 

ODE 

Blest are the sons of peace, 

Whose hearts and hopes are one; 

Whose kind designs to serve and please 
Through all their actions run. 



44 Pearson's Ritual 

Blest is the pious house, 

"Where zeal and friendship meet; 

Where songs of praise and mingled vows 
Make our communion sweet. 

Thus on the heavenly hills 

The saints are blessed above, 
Where joy, like morning dew, distills 

And all the air is love. 

[At the conclusion of the singing, the Supreme 
Grand Master, holding the vessel of earth in the act 
of scattering it upon the floor, shall say:] 

As we are taught in the Holy Bible that from the 
earth man was taken, and unto the earth he shall 
return, I scatter this earth in remembrance of our 
mortality. 

[Taking the vessel of corn and scattering it upon 
the floor, the Worthy Master says:] 

W. M. — As corn is cultivated to nourish and sus- 
tain mankind, so may the members of this Lodge 
cultivate true benevolence and an upright deportment 
to sustain their souls. 

[He then takes the vessel containing pure water, 
in the act of pouring it upon the floor, and says:] 

W. M. — As water is a blessing that God has given 
to man with which to refresh and cleanse the body, so 
may the members of this Lodge receive the water of 
life to refresh and cleanse their souls and prepare 
them for that great and grand Lodge above, where 
love, peace and happiness reign forever and ever. 

[Members respond: Amen.] 

[The Supreme Grand Master then causes the char- 



Pearson 's Ritual 45 

er of the new Lodge to be read, after which it will 
lake proclamation as follows:] 

I, , Supreme Grand Master of the entire broth- 

rhood, by the authority vested in me by the Supreme 
rrand Lodge of the Royal Knights of King David, 

eclare Lodge, No , solemnly consecrated for 

he purpose of diffusing those virtues which are 

aught by our beloved Order, and authorize and em- 

ower it to work, after the laws, rules and regula- 

ions, as a legal and regularly constituted Lodge of 

le Royal Knights of King David; and I trust that 

he solemn ceremonies of consecration on the present 

>ccasion may not be lost sight of by us and passed by 

is so many lessons unheeded. In setting apart this 

odge for the purpose of encouraging and practicing 

lose noble virtues of our Order, we have renewed 

)ur obligation to practice conscientiously the princi- 

3les of Love, Purity and Charity. In conclusion, may 

joy be within these walls ; may prosperity attend and 

3rown your every effort with success, and may love 

md peace be your constant guests. 

[At the conclusion of the address, the members all 
join in singing the following:] 

CONSECRATION ODE 

Come, Saviour Jesus, from above, 
Assist me with Thy heavenly grace ; 

Empty my heart of earthly love, 
And for Thyself prepare the place. 

Henceforth may no profane delight 

Divide this consecrated soul, 
Possess it Thou who hast the right, 

As Lord and Master of the whole. 



46 Pearson 's Ritual 

S. G. M. — The Worthy Grand Chaplain will now 
pray. 

PRAYER 

W. Chap. — We most humbly beseech Thee, God, 
to bless the work in which we have been engaged. Let 
the lessons we have received sink deep into our hearts 
so that this may not be to us an idle ceremony, but 
the means of edification and righteousness, truth and 
humanity. May we all leave this Lodge with our reso- 
lutions strengthened, our charities enlarged, and our 
hearts expanded with pure love towards one another; 
and let our daily walk exemplify that purity we pro- 
fess. Bless, Heavenly Father, the Order of which 
we are members; aid us in the good work of benevo- 
lence to which we pledge ourselves, and give direction 
and success to our efforts. Bless this Lodge and the 
objects for which it was instituted. Let Thy protect- 
ing care be over the members who shall meet here 
from time to time; let Thy powerful hands guide 
them in all their transactions, and make them faith- 
ful to their duties and zealous in their work, so that 
when the solemn close of life shall come and the souls 
of each of us shall separate from the body, Thou wilt 
receive us unto Thyself, being redeemed through 
Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. 

[All the members respond, Amen.] 

[The Lodge shall then be closed by the newly 
installed Worthy Master.] 

LAYING CORNER STONE 

W. M. — Brethren, we are about to begin the work 
for the Master. Let us read the 96th Psalm. 
Sing some appropriate song. 



Pearson's Ritual 47 

PRAYER 

Thou, whom the heaven of heavens can not eon- 
ain! Thou fillest the universe with Thy presence, 
and all the praise of angels and men can add nothing 
to Thy majesty and glory. But though Thou needest 
not our worship, we adore Thee that Thou art too 
ood to despise it, and that millions have experienced 
that Thou art a prayer-hearing and prayer-answering 
God. 

We rejoice that Thou hast established the church 
lere on earth, and preserved the same against all the 
assaults of its enemies; that the blessed sound of the 
gospel has also saluted our ears, and that Thou hast 
in this place gathered a body of people who believe 
in Jesus Christ. 

We render thanks unto Thy name that Thou hast 

3ut it into the hearts of Thy people to rear a temple 

where Thy name is chief above all others. We extol 

Thy grace, and may we indeed esteem it a high privi- 

ege to be allowed to take vows within these walls. 

May the work of this building be performed with- 
out hurt or accident to any person ; may harmony and 
enlightened zeal animate every heart, and may dis- 
cord, jealousy and every selfish aim be far removed 
and when Thou shalt have prospered this enterprise, 
may peace and happiness continue among its mem- 
bers. 

We beseech Thee to seal us unto the pardon of all 
offenses, to own us as Thy ransomed people through 
Jesus Christ our only Lord. Amen. 

DECLARATION 

In the name of the Triune God, the Father and Son 
"vnd Holy Spirit, we lay this stone for a foundation of 



48 Pearson 's Ritual 

a house of worship to be consecrated to His service, 
(or Temple) in so doing, we acknowledge His all- 
ruling providence, and proclaim Jesus Christ as the 
Great Cornerstone of His Church, and the foundation 
of all our hopes of salvation in time and eternity; 
and may the God of all grace hear us, sanction our 
work, and at last accept us, through the Son of His 
love our only Lord and Saviour. Amen. 

PLACE THE STONE 

The Reader Will Read. — How amiable are Thy 
tabernacles, Lord of hosts. 

Members. — My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for 
the courts of the Lord : my heart and my flesh crieth 
out for the living God. 

Reader. — Yea, blessed is the man whose strength is 
in Thee; in whose heart are the ways of them. 

Members. — Who passing through the valley of 
Baca, make it a well; the rain also filleth the pools. 

Reader. — Behold, God, our shield, and look upon 
the face of Thine anointed. 

Members. — For a day in Thy courts is better than 
a thousand. I would rather be a door-keeper in the 
house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of 
wickedness. 

Reader. — For the Lord God is a sun and shield. 

W. M. — You will take the rule and see if the Craft- 
men have duly and truly prepared the stone for this 
building. 

I find it duly and truly prepared for the temple. 

W. M. — Worthy Chancellor, you will take the com- 
pass, by which we circumscribe our lives, and try the 
stone and see that the workmen have performed their 
labor. 



Pearson's Ritual 49 

[After circumscribing the stone, W. C. reports:] 

Worthy Master, I find that the stone is true and is 
ready for the building. 

W. M. — Then let us be about our labor. Worthy 
Senior, you will proceed to instruct. 

W. M. — Brother, we will now teach you how to 
plant the seed. Observe these kernels of corn; they 
are inanimate, but the future plant is there. We open 
the soil and bury the seed, thus. * * * Let these 
leave an everlasting impression upon your mind of 
the truth of the soul's immortality. There is no 
other object in nature in which life and death 
apparently come so near together as the grains of 
seed cast into the ground; yet, when life seems ex- 
tinct, a richer and fuller existence is beginning. 
From this little seed we get, first, the blade, next the 
tender shoot, and then the full corn in the ear. And 
so it is with our minds, wherein we plant the seed of 
knowledge. As we sow, so shall we reap. Let us 
enrich our minds with the virtues of love, truth and 
charity, which never fail to add vigor and happiness 
to life. May you so conduct yourself in this life that 
when the final harvest shall come you will be gathered 
as the ripened grain into the garner, and found 
worthy of the care of your Heavenly Father. 

Place the stone, take collection, etc. 

Close with benediction. 

Return to Lodge. 

BURIAL CEREMONY 

At the death of any member of this Order, in good 
standing, the Worthy Master shall see that all neces- 
sary arrangements are made for the interment of the 



50 Pearson 's Ritual, 

deceased member, and shall appoint an hour (agree- 
able to the time appointed for the funeral) for the 
members to meet at their Lodge-room to attend the 
funeral of the deceased member. 

FUNERAL DRESS OF THE BROTHERS 

The dress for brothers on funeral occasions shall be 
dark hats and suits; crepe on the left arm; white 
gloves, regalia to be worn according to the rank a 
member may have received. A sprig of evergreen 
shall be worn on the left breast. 

[The Lodge will then be opened in due form, and 
the Worthy Master will proceed with the following 
ceremony:] 

W. M. — Man that is born of woman is of few days 
and full of trouble; he cometh forth as a flower and 
is cut down. 

Response by the Lodge. — He fleeth also as a 
shadow, and continueth not. 

"W. M. — What man is he that liveth and shall not 
see death? Can he deliver himself from the power 
of the grave? 

Response. — Dust thou art and unto dust thou shalt 
return. 

W. M. — When he dieth he shall carry nothing 
away, neither shall his glory descend after him. 

Response. — For naked came we into the world and 
naked shall we return. 

W. M. — The Lord gave and the Lord hath taken 
away. 

Response. — Blessed be the name of the Lord. 

W. M. — Let me die the death of the righteous and 
let my last day be like his. 



Pearson 's Ritual 51 

Response. — May the eternal God be our guide, 
even unto death. 

[W. Chaplain then offers prayer.] 

Almighty Father and merciful Giver of all good, 
look down in mercy, we humbly beseech Thee, on 
these Thy mourning children. Thou hast taken a 
loved companion from our midst. Heal the wounds 
which Thou hast made, and cause us to learn true 
wisdom from the lessons Thou art teaching us. Make 
us to know our end and the measure of our days, 
that we may recognize how frail we are. Lead us so 
as to employ the hours of life and health that when- 
ever the summons shall arrive we shall be ready to 
obey, in the assurance of a well-grounded hope that 
an entrance shall be abundantly ministered unto us 
into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Sa- 
viour Jesus Christ, there to see and enjoy Thee, world 
without end. Amen. 

[The Worthy Master will then appoint the required 
pall-bearers, a Marshal, and, when necessary, an 
Assistant Marshal.] 

FORM OF PROCESSION FOR MALES 

The Marshal shall form the procession in the fol- 
lowing order and march to the residence of the 
deceased, and thence to the church and cemetery: 

1. Gate-keeper, w T ith drawn sword covered with 
black crepe. 

2. Worthy Chancellor and Senior, with rods 
draped with crepe. 

3. Private members, two abreast. 

4. Worthy Conductor with candles. 

5. Worthy Chaplain, with open Bible. 



52 Pearson's Ritual 

6. Recording Scribe and Treasurer. 

7. Worthy Master, with gavel draped, and two 
supporters with rods draped. 

8. Worthy Sentinel, with drawn sword covered 
with crepe. 

9. Pall-bearers — hearse — pall-bearers. 

10. Chief mourners and other friends in carriages. 

The procession, on arriving at the church and ceme- 
tery, will halt at a proper distance from the door and 
grave, and open order right and left, facing inward 
(brothers uncovered), when the procession will be 
reversed and pass through the line in the following 
order : 

Worthy Sentinel. 

Worthy Chaplain and Clergyman. 

Chief Mourners. 

Worthy Master with Supporters. 

Senior Master with Supporters. 

Worthy Chancellor with Supporters. 

Worthy Conductor and Senior Conductor. 

Private members, two abreast. 

Gate-keeper. 

Friends and the public. 

The Lodge will form a circle around the grave, as 
near as possible, with the Worthy Master, Worthy 
Chancellor and Senior Worthy Chaplain at the head 
of the grave, the Worthy Chancellor at the left-hand 
side, Worthy Master with supporters at the right, 
and the mourners at the foot. 

[After the body is deposited in the grave, and such 
religious services performed as the family of the 
deceased member may have desired, the following 
service of the Order will be read by the Worthy 
Master:] 



Pearson 's Ritual 53 

Brethren and sisters, our feet once more tread con- 
secrated ground — consecrated as the last resting-place 
of the unnumbered dead. How solemn and impres- 
sive the lessons of the grave ! Here is the end of all 
men upon earth; the end of pride and shame; the 
end of the oppressor and the oppressed; the end of 
all ambition. Here we have a summons to prepare 
for our own approaching dissolution. Death is 
advancing upon us with silence and unnoticed, but 
steady tread. His arrow, keen and fleet, speeds this 
way ; and from its shaft there is no escape. Oh ! why, 
amidst our thousand plans for days and years to 
come, should we not remember that we are both mor- 
tal and immortal? Let us not be like those who. 
having eyes, see not, and having ears, hear not the 
things which so greatly concern their soul 's salvation ; 
therefore, let us prepare for and secure the happiness 
of that immortality without delay, knowing that 
soon, very soon, our mortality may be cut short 
and forever foreclose all further preparation. 

As we bend in sadness over the grave of our de- 
parted companion and drop a tear of sympathy with 
the heart-stricken mourners, let us leave whatever 
foibles the departed may have possessed in the grave 
with his body, while our memories dwell upon his 
virtues. 

To err is human, 
To forgive, divine. 

As Royal Knights of King David, we now deposit 
this sprig of evergreen in the grave of our deceased 
brother, that his virtues shall dwell green in our 
memory. 

[At the word " memory " all the members will cast 
their sprigs of evergreen into the grave.] 



54 Pearson 's Ritual 

W. M. — Brethren and sisters, let the solemn lesson 
of this hour deeply impress upon your minds and 
hearts, and endeavor to 

"So live that when thy summons come to join 
The innumerable caravan that moves 
To the pale realms of shade, where each shall take 
His chamber in the silent halls of death, 
Thou go not, like the quarry-slave at night, 
Scourged to his dungeon, but sustained and soothed 
By an unfaltering trust, approach thy grave 
Like one who wraps the drapery of his couch 
About him, and lies down to pleasant dreams/ ' 

W. M. — Brothers and sisters, I now conjure you 
when we leave, depart and shake from our feet the 
dust of the city of the dead, let the solemn lessons 
here inculcated be so inscribed on our hearts that 
they may be a lasting benefit to each and every one 
of us. Man dieth and wasteth away; yea, man givelh 
up the ghost and where is he? 

Response. — Then shall the dust return to the earth 
as it was, and the spirit unto the God who gave it. 

W. M. — Shall my brother (or sister) rise again? 

Response. — If the dead rise not, then is not Christ 
risen. 

W. M. — But now Christ is risen from the dead, and 
become the first fruits of them that slept. 

Response. — Even so them that sleep in Jesus shall 
God bring with Him. 

W. M. — Wherefore, brothers and sisters, comfort 
one another with these words. 

Response. — Amen, even so, Amen. 

[As the last triple response is given, all the mem- 



Pearson's Ritual 55 

bers must smite their left breasts with their right 
hands toward heaven, and letting them fall to their 
sides three times. 

PRAYER 

W. Chap. — Almighty and Eternal God, who are 
the resurrection and the life, hear, we most humbly 
beseech Thee, the voice of Thy creatures, and turn 
not away Thy merciful ear from our supplications. 
Let Thy special blessings rest upon the relatives of 
our deceased brother ; comfort them, we pray Thee, in 
this their sad hour of affliction; may they not mourn 
as those that have no hope. Oh, wilt Thou be their 
Father and their God. Bless, Heavenly Father, 
our Order wherever it exists, and may Thy blessings 
rest upon the members of this Lodge while in this 
low-ground of sorrow, that when we are called by 
death's relentless hand we may be prepared' and 
found worthy to be admitted into Thy eternal king- 
dom above, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

[While the grave is being closed, the following ode, 
or some suitable hymn, may be sung:] 

ODE 

Deep sorrow now pervades each heart, 

And griefs our bosoms swell ; 
A brother from our band departs, 

In that new home to dwell. 

No more in our loved room again 

Shall we our brother greet, 
But in that room that's free from pain 

Shall we our lost one meet. 



56 Pearson 's Ritual 

'Tis God that lifts our comforts high, 

Or sinks them in the grave; 
He gives, and, blessed be His name, 

He takes but what He gave. 

Naked as from the earth we came 

And rose to life at first, 
We to the earth return again 

And mingle with the dust. 

Here rest in peace, thy labors o'er, 

Our brother we resign, 
Till the Supreme Master's word restore 

To light and life divine. 

[After the funeral ceremony is completed at the 
grave, the brethren will form a procession, as they 
came, and return to the hall in regular order, where 
they must close in due form.] 

FORM OF CLOSING 

[When the business is concluded, or the hour ar- 
rived for the closing, the Worthy Master will say:] 

W. M. — Brother Chancellor, is the business for this 
evening finished? 

W. Chan. — (rising and making sign.) — It is fin- 
ished, Worthy Master. 

[Worthy Master gives two raps, which calls the 
officers up.] 

W. M. — Worthy Recording Secretary, what is the 
amount of the receipts? 

[Worthy Recording Secretary must keep the 
accounts so arranged as to give the amount collected 



Pearson 's Ritual 57 

for fines, taxes and monthly dues separately, then 
stating the whole amount collected.] 

W. M. — Are your books correct? 

W. R. S.— They are, Worthy Master. 

W. M. — Worthy Conductor, it is your duty to take 
charge of the regalias, etc., and I hope you will 
discharge that part of your duty. 

W. Con.— I will, Worthy Master. 

W. M. — Let no one leave this Lodge with the bitter 
spirit of animosity or envy in their hearts; but let 
our Order ever send forth the streams of benevolence, 
and our lives exemplify the principles of honor, truth 
and friendship. 

[The Worthy Master gives three raps, which calls 
all up.] 

W. M. — Brothers, we are now about to go out from 
our private labors into the world. Let us not forget 
that our most zealous efforts are needed to save the 
erring and to reform the lost. Under all circum- 
stances, then, even at the mouth of the frowning 
cannon, be faithful to your obligations. 

Response. — We will be faithful. 

CLOSING ODE 

Good-night, good-night, to every one, 

Be each heart free from care ; 
May every one now seek his home 

And find contentment there. 

May joy beam with tomorrow's sun, 

And every prospect shine; 
While dearest friends laugh merrily 

And keep in view the sign. 



58 Pearson 's Ritual 

[Begin on the hailing signs and close with signs of 
that degree.] 

W. M. — Brethren, as we are again to separate and 
mingle with the world, let us not forget the precepts 
of our Order. Let us strive to add dignity to labor; 
in our dealings with our fellow-men be honest, be just 
and fear not ; avoid intemperance in eating and drink- 
ing, also in language and recreation. Whatever you 
undertake endeavor to do well. Let us be quiet citi- 
zens. Feed the hungry, succor the fatherless and the 
widows, and keep ourselves unspotted from the world. 

I now declare Lodge, No , Royal Knights of 

King David, closed until the next regular meeting 
unless there shall be a called meeting, of which every 
brother will be notified. 

[All respond, Selah.] 

W. M. — Worthy Chancellor, please inform the 
Gate-keeper. 



PARLIAMENTARY RULES 



SUMMARY 



Compiled by W. G. Pearson, Supreme Grand Scribe 
R. K. of K. D., Durham, N. C, 1899 



"Let all Things be Done Decently and in Order" 

To make a motion or address the Convention, a member 
must rise and, in a distinct voice, address the Worthy Master, 
and, standing, wait for recognition. When recognized, which 
is done by the Worthy Master announcing the name, the mem- 
ber may proceed. 

MOTIONS 

When a motion is made and seconded, it must be stated 
by the Worthy Master before it can be discussed. A motion 
may be withdrawn by the mover before it is stated by the 
Worthy Master, and afterwards if no one objects. Ordinarily 
the mover of the motion has the right to open debate, and bj 
courtesy to close it. Formal and lengthy motions should be 
made in writing and handed to the Secretary. 

AMENDMENTS 

Amendments may be made in the same manner as original 
motions, are subject to the same rules and may be once 
amended. The vote must always be taken on the last amend- 
ment first, and finally on the motion as amended. A substi- 
tute can only be entertained as an amendment. To lay on 
the table carries original motion and amendments. The mo- 
tion to re-consider being laid on the table does not carry with 
it the pending measure. An amendment to the "Minutes" 
being laid on the table does not carry with it the journal. An 
appeal laid on the table does not carry with it the original 
subject. 



60 Pearson's Ritual 

PKECEDENCE OF MOTIONS 

PRIVILEGED QUESTIONS 

Privileged questions are such as take precedence of all others 
and are here arranged in the order of their precedence: 

1. Fix the time to which to adjourn. 

2. To adjourn. 

3. Questions of privilege. 

4. Orders of the day. 

INCIDENTAL QUESTIONS 

Incidental questions must be decided before the questions 
which give rise to them, and always yield to privileged ques- 
tions. They can not be amended, and can not be debated 
(except on appeal under certain conditions). 

1. An appeal from the decision of the Chair and questions of 
order. 

2. Objection to consideration of a question. 

3. Eeading of papers. 

4. Leave to withdraw a motion. 

5. Suspension of the rules. 

SECONDARY MOTIONS 

Secondary motions take precedence of the principal question 
and must be decided before the principal question can be 
acted upon. They yield to incidental and privileged questions. 
They are: 

1. To lay on the table. 

2. The previous question. 

3. To postpone to a certain day. 

4. To commit or re -commit. 

5. To amend. 

6. To postpone indefinitely. 

UNDEBATABLE QUESTIONS 

To fix the time to which to adjourn (when a privileged 
question). 
To adjourn. 
Orders of the day. 

Objection to the consideration of a question. 
Lay on the table or take from the table. 



Pearson 's Kitual 61 

Previous questions. 

Ee-consider (a question not debatable). 

Beading of papers. 

Withdrawing a motion. 

Suspending the rules. 

Limiting closing debate. 

TWO-THIRDS VOTE 

Amend the rules. 

Motion to close or limit debate. 

Shall the question be discussed. 

To make a special order, 

To take out of proper order. 

Suspend the rules. 

The previous question. 

CHANGE OF VOTE 

A member can change his vote, if not cast by ballot, at any 
time before the decision is announced by the Worthy Master. 

Until the negative is put, a member may rise and begin 
the discussion of the question, whether he was present or not 
when the question was put. Even after the vote is announced, 
if it is found that a member has risen and addressed the 
Worthy Master before the negative has been put, he is entitled 
to be heard the same as if the vote had never been taken. In 
such cases the question is in the same condition as if it had 
never been put. 

YEAS AND NAYS 

In this method of voting, the Worthy Master states both 
sides of the question at once, the Secretary calls the roll, and 
each member, as his name is called, rises and answers "Yes", 
or "No", and the Secretary notes the answer by placing a 
figure on the left of the name if "Yes", one on the right if 
"No", these figures being in numerical order. The last two 
figures on each side then will represent the vote. After the 
roll-call begins it is too late to be excused from voting. The 
vote should be cast without comment. Officers ' names should 
be called last. No member can be compelled to vote unless 
the yeas and nays are taken. 



62 Pearson 's Ritual 

BY BALLOT 

This form of voting is common in electing officers. Tellers 
distribute 1 ' slips ' y on which the members write their choice, 
after which the tellers collect and count the votes. All blanks 
are "thrown out. " When one candidate (on the informal 
ballot) has a large majority — thereby clearly showing that he 
is the choice of the members — the Secretary may, on motion, 
be instructed to cast the vote of the assembly for said candi- 
date. If any one objects, this can not be done; so, too, the 
motion to make a vote unanimous fails if there is a single 
objection; the same holds true to a motion to expunge from 
the minutes or journal. The Worthy Master can vote when the 
vote is a tie, when his vote will make a tie, when the vote is 
by ballot, and when the ayes and nays aie called. 

OKDEKS OF THE DAY 
There are two classes — general and special. General orders 
can be made by a majority, by postponing questions to cer- 
tain times, or by adopting an order of business for the day 
or session. These general orders can not interfere with the 
established rules of the convention. A special order suspends 
all the rules that interfere with its consideration at the time 
specified. To make a special order requires a two-thirds vote, 
but when called up may, if desired, be postponed by a majority 
vote. 

THE PKEVIOUS QUESTION 

The previous question is the technical term for the motion 
to cut off debate and force the vote. "I move the previous 
question, " is equivalent to saying, "I move the discussion 
close at once and the vote be immediately taken. " The 
Worthy Master says, "Shall the main question be now put?" 
which is virtually saying, ' l Shall the debate close and will you 
take the vote?" If two-thirds vote "Aye," the vote is im- 
mediately taken; if "No," the discussion continues as though 
there had been no interruption. If the previous question is 
called on the report of the committee, the chairman of the 
committee is entitled to the floor to close the debate, even after 
the previous question is ordered. The previous question may 
be limited to an amendment, or to an amendment to an 
amendment but if not so limited applies to amendments and 



Pearson 's Ritual 63 

motion. Even if a motion to commit follows a first or second 
amendment and the previous question is ordered, it applies to 
all. It can be applied to a "definite postponement" without 
affecting any other pending motion. 

TO RE-CONSIDER 

If a question has been decided, it can be taken up again 
by a motion to re-consider. This motion must be made by one 
who voted with the prevailing side. The motion should be 
to re-consider (not the action) the vote by which the ac- 
tion was taken. If carried the question is where it was just 
before the vote was taken, so if a member has exhausted his 
privilege of debate during the former discussion, he can only 
speak further while considering whether to re-consider. When 
a vote taken under the previous question is re-considered, the 
question is divested of the previous question and open to de- 
bate and amendment, provided the previous question had been 
exhausted by votes taken on all the questions covered by it 
before the motion to re-consider was made. The motion to 
re-consider can not be amended, and is debatable if the ques- 
tion to be re-considered was debatable. A question can not 
be twice re-considered. 

APPEAL FROM THE DECISION OF THE WORTHY 

MASTER 

If a member objects to the decision of the Worthy Master, 
he can appeal to the convention. 

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE 

When some subject not in good form or well digested is 
brought into the convention, it is sometimes advisable to go 
into a committee of the whole. The usual method is for some 
one to move we go into a committee of the whole. The vote 
taken, the Worthy Master appoints a chairman of the committee 
and leaves his place to such chairman. The assistant secre- 
tary keeps a record of what is said. Only reports of what 
is done are given by the chairman when the committee rises. 
The committee has a right to elect its permanent chairman if 
it so desires. The only motions in order are to amend, adopt, 
or rise and report. To cut off debate the convention must 



64 Pearson's Ritual 

signify the length of time the committee can sit. If the ques- 
tion is not thoroughly discussed in that time, the committee 
may rise, report progress and ask leave to sit again. The 
previous question can not be called in a committee of the whole. 

MOTION TO ADJOURN 

(NOT "ALWAYS IN ORDER") 

A motion to adjourn is not in order while a member has 
the floor; while the yeas and nays are being called; while the 
members are voting on any question, or when the previous 
question has been called and is still pending. 

SESSIONS AND MEETINGS 
A lodge, whether continuing one or more days, is only one 
session. Each motion to adjourn terminates a meeting, but 
only the final adjournment terminates a session. 



